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Naples is one of the most beautiful cities on Florida’s coast, with its white sand beaches, vibrant dining scene, rich history, and eclectic art and culture. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or with a group of friends, you’ll have no trouble finding fun things to see and do from morning ‘til midnight. Here are the 19 must-see attractions in the Naples area.
1. Naples Pier
- Website: naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/naples-pier
- Address: 25 12th Ave S, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 24/7
Enjoy beachfront vistas of Naples beach’s white sands and clear waters below, spot osprey soaring overhead and dolphins below, or indulge in a spot of fishing. Restrooms and a small concession stand are available on the pier. Access is at the end of 12th Avenue South, and there’s no charge.
2. Historic Palm Cottage
- Website: napleshistoricalsociety.org
- Address: 137 12th Ave. S.Naples, FL
- Opening hours: Tours are 12 pm – 4 pm (bookings are advised)
Nestled alongside the famous Norris Gardens, Historic Palm Cottage is one of the most popular attractions in Naples. Managed by the Naples Historical Society, this property has been here since 1895 and is a wonderful example of the handmade concrete and tabby mortar architecture of the time. Guided tours are available for history fans who want to learn about the cottage and its many antiques.
3. Naples Botanical Garden
- Website: naplesgarden.org
- Address: 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily
Head to these tropical and tranquil gardens located three miles south of downtown Naples to discover 160 acres of foliage from Southwest Florida and beyond. This world-class attraction showcases more than 1,000 tropical plants from various ecosystems and is a fantastic day out for nature lovers.
Don’t miss the Caribbean Garden or the Smith River of Grass, and be sure to make time for refreshments at the Fogg Cafe, where you can enjoy wondrous views of the gardens alongside tasty food and drinks.
4. Third Street South
- Website: thirdstreetsouth.com
- Address: Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 24/7
Third Street South is said to be the birthplace of the city and is a fascinating glimpse into Old Naples. The street is similar in nature to 5th Avenue South but offers much more historical charm. Spend a morning wandering among original beach cottages and antique fountains, then take advantage of the fantastic shopping and al fresco dining.
If you’re visiting over the weekend between November and April, don’t miss the famous farmers market. This event is extremely popular and is the perfect place to pick up fresh produce and crafty souvenirs.
5. Tin City
- Website: tincityofnaples.com
- Address: Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 24/7
Tin City was the part of the city that was first settled by pioneers, and early visitors to Naples would arrive at the impressive 600-foot-long pier. In the early days, Tin City was known for clam shelling and boat building, but now it is a shopping mecca of over 40 local, unique boutiques. Head here to shop for everything from jewelry and designer clothing to handmade gifts and beach essentials.
Sightseeing boat tours of the Gulf of Mexico also depart from Tin City, and there’s a good chance that you’ll see manatees and dolphins if you choose to join one of the popular sunset cruises.
6. Naples Zoo
- Website: napleszoo.org
- Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 9 am – 4.30 pm
This small city zoo works with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida to deliver a safe, ethical, and fascinating zoo experience in Naples. Interactive experiences include Meet the Keeper sessions, which allow animal enthusiasts to ask all their burning questions about the creatures at the zoo.Â
Visitors can also hand-feed giraffes and watch staff feed alligators. For a unique perspective, hop aboard the catamaran cruise to get closer to the animals than you can at other zoos.
7. Marco Island
Marco Island is 30 minutes south of Naples and is home to long, wide stretches of white sand beaches that stretch for six uninterrupted miles. Each section of the beach offers something unique — from the mangroves of Tigertail Beach to Central Access, where sun-lovers spread out on the powdery sand.
Many sections of the beach have restrooms, and several rental companies offer umbrellas, kayaks, and paddleboards by the hour. Eco tours are also available for those wanting to gain a better understanding of Southwest Florida’s flora and fauna.
Note: Parking is scarce and fills up quickly, so go early to guarantee yourself a spot.
8. Revs Institute
- Website: revsinstitute.org
- Address: 2500 Horseshoe Dr S, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 10 am – 4 pm Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Car buffs won’t want to miss Revs Institute and its incredible collection of rare and classic vehicles. One hundred twelve cars are split into four fascinating exhibitions: Porsches, automobility, sports motoring, and racing cars. What’s special about this museum is that barriers don’t protect the cars, so visitors can take a seat inside their favorites and imagine what it might be like to own one.
9. Clam Pass Park
- Address: 465 Seagate Dr, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 8 am – sunset daily
Clam Pass Park in Collier County is a great option for a tranquil escape from the crowds. With 35 acres of coastal habitat and a three-quarter-mile boardwalk, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the stunning natural scenery that North Naples is known for. Keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds, butterflies, and even an alligator! Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is another great option for a boardwalk adventure through Florida’s famous swampland.
10. Naples Depot Museum
- Website: naplestrainmuseum.org
- Address: 1051 5th Ave S, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 10 am – 2 pm Friday & Saturday (seasonal, from mid-October to the end of April)
The Naples Depot was the city’s first passenger train, and this insightful museum pays homage to the history of the railroads. Exhibits include a Seminole dugout canoe, an antique swamp buggy, and several restored railroad cars and show how Floridians have traversed the Everglades and beyond during decades gone by. If you’re traveling with children, don’t miss the mini train ride that’s included with the admission fee.
11. Fifth Avenue South
5th Avenue South is the place to go if you’re in search of dining, dancing, theater, and festivals. Thought by most locals to be the heart and soul of Naples, you’ll find casual and fine dining options aplenty, ranging from Italian to Asian and classic American. Here, you can shop ‘til you drop or dance until the early hours. Whatever you choose to do, the fun is pretty much guaranteed!
12. Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
- Website: napleswaterpark.com
- Address: 15000 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 10 am – 5 pm
This wet ‘n’ wild waterpark is the perfect place to take the kids to blow off some steam. Make a splash in the diving pool, float along the lazy river, or have a shootout with the water pistols. Don’t miss the water fountains — they are perfect for cooling off on hot Florida days.
13. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
- Address: 11135 Gulf Shore Dr, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 8 am – sunset daily
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is located on a barrier island north of Vanderbilt Beach and is a peaceful place to relax and soak up some nature. As well as being home to some of the area’s best beaches, there are plenty of opportunities for adventures on land and in the water.Â
Choose from hiking, biking, snorkeling, and scuba diving, to name just a few of the activities on offer. Birding enthusiasts — don’t forget your binoculars! Here, you can spot eagles, osprey, and owls, among many other species.
14. The Baker Museum
- Website: artisnaples.org/baker-museum
- Address: 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 10 am – 4 pm Tuesday to Saturday / 12 pm – 4 pm Sunday
The Artis Naples complex is where you’ll find the Baker Museum, which houses the best collection of American art in the city. With an extensive permanent collection and a range of ever-changing temporary exhibits, visitors can expect a vast display of modern works in various artistic mediums, including photography and sculpture.
16. Sanibel Island
Another fantastic day trip is Sanibel Island, which is 1.5 hours from Naples and just a short drive from Fort Myers. This beauty spot is known for its lighthouse, luxurious resorts, and incredible sunsets. Shelling is one of the most popular pursuits on the island, and the J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge is where you have the chance to spot over 220 species of birds and other animals.
15. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
- Website: rookerybay.org
- Address: 300 Tower Rd, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 9 am – 4 pm Monday to Friday
If you’re looking for a day trip to remember, don’t miss this incredible, undisturbed mangrove reserve. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the backwaters on a kayak and learning about the plants and animals in the interactive Environmental Learning Center. Guided tours on boats and kayaks are available and are the best way to get to know Rookery Bay.
17. Miami
Miami is famous for its glamourous Latin vibe, and it’s just two hours from Naples, making it doable as a day trip or an overnighter. There’s so much to see in Miami — here are some of the highlights:
- Check out the murals in Wynwood
- Stroll along the charming Española Way in South Beach
- Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
- Cycle down the famous Ocean Drive
- Spend some time shopping in the city’s many malls and boutiques
Everglades National Park is also between Naples and Miami — it’s one of the most unique ecosystems in America and is definitely worth a visit if you have the time.
18. Sugden Regional Park
- Website: collierparks.com/collier_park/sugden-regional-park
- Address: 4284 Avalon Drive, Naples, FL
- Opening hours: 8 am – sunset Monday to Saturday
Sugden Regional Park is just ten minutes from the center of Naples and is a superb alternative to the city’s beaches. The park wraps around Lake Avalon, creating a freshwater beach to relax and unwind on.
Sugden has a playground, several picnic areas, a paved fitness trail, and plenty of opportunities for swimming. Visitors can also hop aboard a kayak or sailboat, and fishing and waterskiing are also possible.
19. Ten Thousand Islands
- Website: fws.gov/refuge/ten-thousand-islands
- Opening hours: 24/7
The Ten Thousand Islands is an outdoor paradise that few visitors see, but this often-overlooked destination is the perfect place to explore. Located between Marco Island and the mouth of Lostman’s River, this uninhabited area is home to winding waterways and mangrove islets, making it an ideal habitat for rare native wildlife.
Which Attractions Will You Visit in Naples?
With its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant culture, Naples offers so much to see and do. Which of these 19 attractions will you visit on your next trip to this Floridian gem?
